In 1986 the Maritime History Archive was established as a separate unit within the Faculty of Arts as a result of reorganization of the Maritime History Group. Its functions include the acquisition, organization, and preservation of materials relating to the history of sea-based activities and societies, with a special emphasis on the North Atlantic Basin.

Since the mid-1970's the Public Record Office, London, England has transferred 22,000 ft. of original documentation in the series "Agreements on Account of Crew" for the period of 1863-1938, 1951-1976 to the Maritime History Archive. These documents represent an incomparable source for the study of the movements and manning of British Empire vessels throughout the world. Combined with collections relating to fisheries, commerce, and other sea-based activities, the crew agreements have made the Maritime History Archive an internationally known resource centre for the study of maritime history.

The Archive is housed in the Mathematics Building and is open to the public Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m to 4:00 p.m. A research service (for a fee) to undertake small research projects and answer queries pertaining to its subject area is also available.